NMDPRA: Protesters urge AGF, ICPC, CCB to take immediate action on petitions

Protesters comprising members of civil society organizations on Friday urged the Attorney General of the Federation (AGF), the Independent Corrupt Practices and other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) and the Code of Conduct Bureau (CCB) to take immediate action on petitions
alleging financial recklessness against Engr. Farouk Ahmed, Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA).

The activists, who are demanding investigation of the allegations against the NMDPRA boss, protested for the fifth consecutive day in Abuja on Friday.

The demonstrations have seen protesters occupy the offices of the AGF, ICPC and CCB, calling for a probe of the allegations.

The allegations include abuse of office, diversion of over $5 million to fund his children’s school fees abroad, and conflict of interest.

The Concerned Young Professionals Network, which is leading the protests, had in petitions forwarded to the AGF, ICPC and CCB, alleged that the NMDPRA under Ahmed’s leadership has compromised on regulations, leading to suspected issuance of waivers for importation of diesel with high sulphur content.

They also alleged impropriety in the financial affairs of the agency.

Led by Olayemi Isaac and Dan Okwa, the protesters on Friday urged the AGF, ICPC and CCB take swift action to investigate the allegations and restore public trust in the NMDPRA.

They stressed the need for accountability and transparency in the management of public resources.

Okwa said, “We urge the AGF, ICPC and CCB to take this petition seriously and initiate a thorough investigation into the allegations against Engr. Ahmed. The Nigerian people deserve transparency and accountability in the management of public resources.

“The AGF, ICPC and CCB have a responsibility to uphold the law and ensure that public officials are held accountable for their actions.

“We expect them to take swift action on this petition and bring Engr. Ahmed to justice if found guilty.

“The AGF and CCB must demonstrate their commitment to transparency and accountability by investigating these allegations thoroughly and taking appropriate action.

“The public is watching, and we will not be silenced until justice is served.”